Unfortunately, more than 500 fires, as well as 20 injuries occur every year just from fires associated with propane barbecue grills. While grills are wonderful for cooking food outdoors for the family or entertaining friends and family on the weekend, it is crucial that proper steps be taken to ensure the grill is operated safely. To ensure you and your family remains safe while grilling, follow some simple rules.
For starters, always make sure tubes leading to the grill’s burner are checked on a regular basis. If you are unsure how the tubes should be set up, you can simply contact the manufacturer of your grill for information. Then, every time you change the gas cylinder, you need to go through the process of checking for leaks. This can be done by taking soapy water and pouring it over the connections.
If you notice anything bubbling, you have a leak and should not use the grill. Now, to apply the soapy water, you can simply use a spray bottle. Be sure the grill is turned off right away and unhooked. Depending on the location of the leak, you might need to have it professionally fixed. In addition, be sure every connection is nice and tight prior to turning the gas on. Then when you start the gas grill, always have the lid open. If not, as the gas runs, it can accumulate and when ignited, create an explosion.
You also want to make sure the propane you buy is from an authorized gas supplier. Keep propane tanks outside and away from any type of heat source and prior to having the propane tank filled, take time to look for any type of damage. Shut the propane fuel off at the grill and the bottle every time you finish grilling as well. Finally, when transporting your gas tank, always keep it inside the car and never in the trunk. If you have a fire, turn the burners off if you can and you should always have a fire extinguisher close by.